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The city and county of Galway holds the best of Irish traditions and cultures. In fact the city and region is bi-lingual, and many locals speak the Irish language. The University City situated where the River Corrib meets the sea, Galway has numerous festivals and traditions and the Galway Continental Christmas Market is one of the best of these celebrations. The market has fun for everyone and attractions for children and adults with delicious international food, mugs of spiced Gluwein and traders selling an abundance of wonderful Christmas gifts and artisan crafts. There are plenty of Galway hotels to choose from should you decide to visit this Christmas.

Location and Setting

The annual Galway Continental Christmas Market is held in Eyre Square in the heart of Galway City. The city's festive market brings in the Christmas season in style beside the landmark St. Nicholas' Church on the river's eastern bank. Church Lane and the entire square carry the festive spirit, while the lines of decorated stalls sell items handmade and home-cooked by locals.

Market Traders and Attractions

Visitors that tour the stalls will find a fine array of items in these categories: arts and crafts, clothing, fresh and preserved produce as well as plants and lovely flowers, and food vendors selling local and international cuisine. These stalls hold traditional treasures and innovative items that are certain to fascinate. Carrying home some unique gifts and souvenirs of the market helps people remember the joy of Galway Market in the coming year.

Other attractions include live music and dancing with traditional Irish bands and dancers, those sites children love like stalls selling toys and sweets as well as a carousel and Santa's Grotto. Yes, Santa Clause will be visiting the Galway Market all four weekends before December 24, and he has Mrs Clause and his elves with him. They are always glad to see the children. Kids can get photos of themselves on Santa's lap if desired. The proceeds from Santa's Grotto for admittance and optional photos will go to the organizations, Children in Galway and EnableIreland.

Come to Galway

Christmas is the time to visit Galway. This ancient city has much to offer with its Galway Continental Christmas Market, Christmas lights aglow and Galway Bay on Ice. Local theatres are running some phenomenal programs for the season as well so why note check into one of the many hotels in Galway and have yourself memorable Christmas.